Ecstasy

Ecstasy, also known as E, sweeties, swedgers, or named by the logo on the front, is a drug usually associated with the dance scene. Pills usually have a distinct logo on one or both sides of the pill and come in a variety of colours, shapes and sizes.

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What it does to you

The effect of MDMA will depend on the environment and what dose is taken. MDMA is a stimulant (upper) drug which can make you feel chatty and euphoric. You might feel more connected to music and people and able to have conversations more freely. Other effects include hallucinations, enhanced colour and sound.

What the side effects are

It also increases your heart rate and body temperature which can result in dehydration and overheating with potentially serious consequences. This risk is increased if mixing with alcohol, not getting enough water or mixing with other drugs.

What it can be cut with

Without testing it is impossible to tell what is in an ecstasy tablet. Some pills will contain just MDMA but others can contain MDMA and many other substances. These can be dangerous and have resulted in several deaths.

Caffeine

Ecstasy has been found to contain caffeine which is a stimulant drug which can make you feel 'perked up' and more energetic. It also increases your heart rate and breathing. People using it can experience alertness, improved concentration and mood although higher doses can cause headaches, restlessness, sleep problems and cravings.

Amphetamine

Ecstasy can be cut with amphetamine which is a strong stimulant (upper) drug which can make you feel energetic and confident. It also increases your heart rate and breathing. People using it can experience an increase in alertness and concentration as well as restlessness, aggression and paranoia. Negative effects are more likely with higher doses or when mixed with other drugs.

PMA / PMMA

PMA and PMMA are sometimes found in tablets sold as ecstasy. They are strong psychedelic (trippy) stimulant (upper) drugs. Like MDMA they can increase your heart rate, breathing and blood pressure, but take longer to kick in and are more toxic. Users can experience hallucinations, a feeling of closeness to others as well as muscle spasms, nausea, vomiting and a dangerous increase in body temperature.

Final Frame

Now you know what can be inside ecstasy. But you can never be sure what you’re getting.

If you or anyone you know feels unwell after taking drugs get help and call 999.